Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s get started on making this delectable cake!

1. Preheat Your Oven

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Mash the Bananas

• In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Set aside.

3. Cream Butter and Sugar

• In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture is light and fluffy.
• Tip: Scrape down the sides of the bowl with a spatula to ensure everything is well combined.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla

• Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract. Your batter should be creamy and smooth at this point.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices throughout the cake.

6. Mix in Bananas and Sour Cream

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the mashed bananas and sour cream. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.
• Tip: The batter should be thick and a little lumpy; that’s okay!

7. Pour into Pans

• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops for an even bake.

8. Bake the Cakes

• Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Tip: Rotate the pans halfway through baking for even cooking.

9. Cool the Cakes

• Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

10. Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter

• While the cakes cool, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.

11. Gradually Add Powdered Sugar

• Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Then, increase to medium speed and beat until fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.

12. Add Vanilla and Milk

• Mix in the vanilla extract and milk. Adjust the milk amount to achieve your desired frosting consistency.

Assembling the Cake (150-200 words)

13. Frost the Cake

• Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
• Tip: Use an offset spatula for an even application.
• Place the second layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake. Don’t worry about making it perfect—the rustic look adds to the charm!

14. Decorate (Optional)

• If you’d like, decorate the top with banana slices, chopped nuts, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch.